Hay fever and Zyrtec: what to know

Hay fever, also called allergic rhinitis, can cause sneezing, a watery or blocked nose, and itching in the nose, eyes or throat. Cetirizine may reduce these symptoms, but it does not remove the trigger or cure the underlying allergy. It may be less helpful for severe nasal blockage than a treatment designed for congestion.

Some people feel sleepy, tired or dry-mouthed after taking an antihistamine. Avoid driving or using machinery until you know how it affects you, and check with a pharmacist if you take sedating medicines, have kidney problems, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Follow the product label or advice from a pharmacist, and do not combine allergy medicines unless a clinician recommends it. Reducing exposure can help: keep windows closed when outdoor pollen is high, shower after time outside, and avoid rubbing itchy eyes. A pharmacist can help you choose between an antihistamine, a nasal spray and eye treatment based on your symptoms.

If symptoms continue despite sensible use, arrange a GP consultation to review the diagnosis and treatment plan. Related problems can include allergic conjunctivitis, asthma or sinusitis.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue, faintness, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Arrange medical advice for wheezing, persistent facial pain, fever, or symptoms that interfere with sleep and daily activities. Hay fever can coexist with asthma, so breathing symptoms deserve attention rather than being attributed to pollen alone.

Could my symptoms be allergic rhinitis, and which treatment fits my main problem? Could cetirizine interact with my medicines or medical conditions? What should I do if nasal blockage, wheezing or eye symptoms continue?